The review comes at a time when the humanitarian
community faces a number of daunting challenges. Disasters are increasing,
as are the numbers of people affected by them. These are set out starkly
in the Chair's foreword and in the report itself.

The UK is a major contributor in humanitarian
crises, and is highly respected for its role. Some of the best known humanitarian
organisations are UK based, and the British public gives generously in
appeals.